Word Origin & History

square c.1300, "tool for measuring right angles," from O.Fr. esquire "a square, squareness," from V.L. *exquadra, from *exquadrare "to square," from L. ex- "out" + quadrare "make square," from quadrus "a square," from quattuor "four" (see quart). Meaning "rectangular shape or area" is first recorded before 1382; replaced O.E. feower-scyte. Sense of "open space in a town or park" is from 1687. The mathematical sense of "a number multiplied by itself" is first recorded 1557. The verb is first attested 1382; with ref. to accounts, from 1815.

Example Sentences for squaring up

He and Bolton talked of "squaring up" with Dave, Shadow, and the others, but nothing came of the discussion.

Begin by squaring up the four legs making them all 24-3/4 in.

It is mainly used for squaring up side faces, as upon the ends of work or the sides of heads or collars.

After squaring up the face, draw the outline directly on the wood.

"Yes, I go in for squaring up with old Haskers," he said, rather loudly.

He went down fighting for me, an' I'll be everlastingly condemned if I don't have a hand in squaring up for it.

Begin work by squaring up the posts to length and beveling the top ends, then trim the back and side boards.

It requires an exceedingly steady hand to hold a plane firmly for squaring up a half-inch board.

After squaring up the top, the two grooves were cut to receive the upper ends of the legs.

“I quite agree with you, Betty dear; and I thank my stars for college athletics,” laughed Maxwell, squaring up to the tent-pole.